The Black Gold Walnut Festival is happening on October 3, 2026. The Alton Chamber of Commerce has multiple contest lined up including a baking, woodworking, and pumpkin carving contest along with a talent show!
Baking
For those who like to bake, the baking contest is back. All entries must contain black walnut, and must be submitted by 10:30 am. The categories are cookies, breads, cakes, and pies. First, second, and third place prizes of $15, $10, and $5 will be given out in each category. A People’s Choice Award will also be given out this year. Between noon and 1 pm, festival attendees can stop by and taste the baked goods and vote on their favorite entry.
Woodworking
The woodworking contest is also back this year. The first, second, and third place prizes will be worth $50, $35, and $20. All entries must be made out of black walnut wood. The entries also must be submitted to the empty lot between the library and JoElla’s Beauty Collective by 10:30 am.
Pumpkin Carving
For the kids, the pumpkin carving contest will begin at 10 am on the Courthouse lawn. The age categories are 5-8 and 9-12. First, second, and third place prizes will be awarded in both age categories. There is no charge to enter the contest. All supplies will be provided.
Talent Show
New to the Walnut Festival this year is the Walnut Idol Talent Show! Registration opens at 10 am at the Chamber booth and is limited to the first ten people. The talent show will be at 10:30. A $50 prize will be awarded in the categories Showstopper, Rising Star, and Most Entertaining. Whatever your talent is, bring it to the Walnut Idol Talent Show.
